12 Black sci-fi and fantasy comics to read

Cartoon Network and HBO Max both announced that the adaptation of the fantasy graphic novel series was in progress. Iyanu: The Child of WonderIt is a 2D animation series. This graphic novel series is from YouNeek Studios, Dark Horse Comics, and heavily inspired by Nigeria’s Yoruba culture.

Iyanu: The Child of WondeOne of the many great Black speculative comics books is r. There are many to choose from, ranging in genre and content. Since Iyanu’s animated premiere is still a long way off, here are 12 Black speculative comics to entertain you until then.

Juni Ba

Image: Juni Ba/TKO Studios

TKO Studios’ West African fantasy graphic novel is set in post-apocalyptic Africa, with people talking about a tower or an evil wizard. Prince Mansour Keita is accompanied by his djeli, which serves as a historian and storyteller of the court. They set off to uncover the truth about it. They meet others who survived the apocalypse, and they begin to question all they know.

With a minimalist art style reminiscent of Genndy Tartakovsky’s animated series Samurai JackThe stories are interconnected and feature compelling characters. DjeliyaIt reads almost like a graphic novel version of a folktale. It’s a story about power, stories, the power to influence others and yourself, for good or bad.

N.K. Jemisin, Jamal Campbell

Image by Jamal Campbell/DC Comics

A 12-issue limited series under DC Comics’ Young Animal imprint, this comic tells the story of a new, lone Green Lantern named Sojourner “Jo” Mullein as she investigates a murder in a sector known as The City Enduring. Jo is forced to make a decision about whether following orders is worth it.

N.K. Jemisin, inner thoughts and spoken dialogue are enhanced by letterer Deron Bennett, bringing Jo’s inner monologue to life. Meanwhile, the vibrant locale is a treat to behold thanks to Jamal Campbell’s electrifying artwork. This book is not just for fans of superheroes, but for all sci-fi enthusiasts.

By Victor LaValle, Dietrich Smith

Image: Dietrich Smith/Boom Studios

Published by Boom Studios, this graphic novel is loosely inspired by Mary Shelley’s FrankensteinThe modern world is seen through the eyes Dr. Josephine Baker who is an inventor, descendant and descendant of Victor Frankenstein. When her son Akai is killed by police, she brings him back to life using Frankenstein’s tech and a little bit of her own unique magic.

Victor LaValle’s thought-provoking story is complemented by the addition of Dietrich Smith, Jim Campbell and Joana Lafuente, who are both artists. These four men are not afraid to express their violent ideas and behaviors, and they use a lot bloody red inks. They combine their horror and terror to make a powerful story about humankind versus monstrosity.

By Danny Lore, Vita Ayala, Jamie Jones

Image: Jamie Jones/Comixology

Comixology Originals has published this hip-hop Cyberpunk graphic novel. The story is about Quentin, also known as QK. He works gigs in return for quarters that can be used to buy video arcade cabinets or call his mom. Q, along with his merry band discover that a corrupt technology scheme is targeting their neighbourhood when Ayo, a little girl asks Q for help.

This book is notable for its charismatic characters, as well as the inclusion of hip hop into the world-building. QK is pretty chill and has an aerodynamic afro like Kid from Kid ’n Play, while Hi-Top is impulsive and uses a digital turntable and rap as a weapon. In addition to Danny Lore and Vita Ayala’s entertaining writing, Ryan Ferrier’s lettering adds some style with graffiti-inspired pages, and Jamie Jones’ art and colors make the action feel almost like a video game.

By Sebastian A. Jones, Amandla Stenberg, Ashley A. Woods

Image: Ashley A. Woods/Stranger Comics

This epic fantasy graphic novel, published by Stranger Comics is set in Asunda. Niobe, a young elven girl, is on the run against Essessa the vampire knight, who wants to return Niobe to King Andrek VII, her corrupt father. Niobe is soon able to find refuge from the evil vampire knight Essessa, but her plans are disrupted by the killing of an Elven boy. When a half-orc is blamed for the boy’s death, Niobe finds herself thrust in a chain of events that forces her to face the problems she’s been running from.

Complementing Sebastian A. Jones and Amandla Stenberg’s story is gorgeous and magical artwork from Ashley A. A Larger World uses striking letters and woods. The characters portray Asunda in its wild and fantastic glory. Niobe, along with the Asunda, are part of an epic fantasy world. A HBO Max series is currently being developed.

Magus Ato by Jacque Aye

Image: Magus Ato/Adorned with Chi

This brand is part of the Lifestyle Brand of the Same Name. Chi-huaThis story is about Nigerian college students that transform into magic warriors in order to defeat evil Igbo spirits called Mmanwu. Adaeze, an intelligent student who is often prone to tears, meets Chi the puppy dog. Adaeze, along with four others students learn how to use their talents as Mmanwu menaces campus.

Adaeze is not the only character to be noted. There are also the lively Chigozie Okafor, who has a twin with albinism, Kelechi the goth twin, as well as Kaira Okoye (a yoga-loving girl) and Emeka, an athlete. Not only does Jacque Aye write them well by infusing them with Igbo myth and culture, but Magus Ato’s anime-influenced art style will charm you.

By Tyler F. Martin, Felipe Dunbar, Giacomo Guida

Godhood Comics published the comic, which was created by Felipe Dunbar and Tyler F. Martin. The AntagonistsTwo married supervillains, Destructus and Ultima, are following their lead. Now that they’ve successfully taken over the world, they are trying to settle into retirement. But old habits are hard to overcome, so Destructus and Ultima have to be careful with their bad choices and hide their pasts from the superpowered children.

The comic asks what makes a villain. It also explains what it means for Black Americans to be called villains. Braham Entertainment plans to adapt the comic into a TV series.

Kwanza Osajyefo Tim Smith 3 Jamal Igle

Photo by Khary Randolph/Black Mask Studios

Black Mask Studios presents this graphic novel. The story takes place in a world that only Black people possess superpowers. Kareem learns that his special powers are discovered after being saved from being shot by the police. Kareem soon meets Jeremiah who is the leader of an organisation that allegedly helps people like Kareem. Kareem is also attracted to Dr. Mann who is a corrupt leader in government. Kareem has to now decide for himself which people to trust, and how to get there.

Black is the first graphic novel in a trilogy that includes Black: America’s Sweetheart, Black [AF]Article: Orphans and Widows, Black [AF]: Devil’s DyePlease see the following: Weiß. Filmmaker Gerard McMurray announced that Black’s comic book series would soon be made into a film adaptation.The First Purge).

By Greg Anderson Elysée, Walter Ostlie, Lee Milewski

Image: Walt Msonza Barna/Webway Comics

Webway Comics has published this updated version of the African folktale Anansi The Spider. This comic combines both horror and superheroics. Is’nana must preserve his father Anansi’s legacy while carving his own path by helping people in need. One of the most unique aspects of Is’nana is he can turn into an actual spider in order to fully utilize his powers and connect with his spider-brothers and -sisters. Anansi, his archenemy Osebo and their story are presented in an engaging and frightening way. The character designs are also robust, giving Is’nana and Osebo an imposing presence.

This book is the first of a series of graphic novels that tell the story of Is’nana, Anansi, and other Black and African folk heroes. All the rest are books Is’nana the Were-Spider: The Hornet’s Web, The Ballads of Rawhead & John HenryPlease see the following: Showtime. Trading cards are available as well as a comic aimed at kids called Birthday Day.

By Dorphise Jean, Julie Anderson

Image: Julie Anderson/Short Fuse Media

In this issue, Destiny, a young Haitian lady who is able to use her superpowers following an accident, appears as the first of a continuing comic book series. She must now figure out how and what to do next. In addition to the first issue, there is also a second issue that continues Destiny’s story, and the third issue is currently in development. Destiny, a spunky heroine who can stand her ground even before her powers are granted, is fascinating.

Women Write About Comics conducted an interview with Dorphise Jean, who stated that Destiny was created by her to be a female superhero in Haiti.

By Micheline Hess

Image: Micheline Hess

Micheline Hess presents this gory and disturbing sociopolitical horror story of a Black clan that hunts racists in New York City. The clan was a part of the trans-Atlantic slave trading and has even been hailed heroes.

The more times change, the more racist attitudes remain the same. This graphic novel shows how oppressed people can fight back. Even if you aren’t usually a horror fan, this comic is worth checking out if you like contemporary takes on mythical creatures.

By David F. Walker, Chuck Brown, Sanford Greene

Image by Sanford Greene/Image Comics

Image Comics. Bitter RootIt is located in Harlem’s bustling cultural scene of 1920s Harlem. There are many jazz clubs, but Jinoo is also a common sight. Jinoo was created by deep hate, fear and racism. The Sangerye family is a fighting force against these monsters, but their numbers are shrinking due to personal rifts and grave losses.

Every member of the Sangerye clan has their own strengths and weaknesses, which make them fascinating characters. Rico Renzi, an artist Sanford Greene and Clayton Cowles have made the monsters terrifying. They use color to increase volatile emotions, and they use fonts to add emotional weight to their nightmarish characters designs.

Sangerye’s family has to come together and face a new threat when it arises. Regina King is directing the movie adaptation. The book will be part of a ongoing series about supernatural horror comic books.

Latonya Pennington has been a prolific freelance contributor. Her pop culture articles, essays, and other pieces can be found on places like Comics XF and Into More.